Kevin Goodrich, Recreation Supervisor, and Olivia Salazar, Recreation Programmer
The Town of Marana Parks and Recreation Department received three awards at the 70th Arizona Parks and Recreation Association’s State Conference, including the Outstanding Program Award for the “80’s Doggy Paddle Pool Party” event. This event was done in partnership with Marana Animal Services in the Community & Neighborhood Services Department.
Last September, Marana Parks & Recreation found a new opportunity for four-legged fun ahead of the scheduled draining of Marana Pool. Time for an 80’s Doggy Takeover! Upon approval from the Pima County Health Department, the Marana Pool became a one-time destination for our furry friends.
Marana Parks & Recreation partnered with multiple K-9-friendly entities, including Marana Animal Services, Cody’s Friends Charity, and No Kill Pima County. Dog owners were encouraged to pre-register for a free thirty-minute time slot for their pups and to deck out for the 80s best-dressed contest. At check-in, participants could take a fun 80s-style photo with their pup in the “Photo Fun Booth”, enter the 80s-themed best-dressed contest, donate pet food to Cody’s Friends Charity, and visit with vendors. Truly Nolan brought out some dog specific giveaways, such as Frisbees, leashes, and portable water dishes. Sol Dog Lodge donated a special prize for the winners of the best-dressed contest. Marana Animal Services checked that every dog coming in was licensed under Marana or Pima County and verified that shot records were current. Cody’s Friends Charity was accepting pet food donations to be distributed throughout the community. No Kill Pima County worked in conjunction with Marana Animal Services to offer discounted microchipping on site.
In addition to the Outstanding Program Award, Marana Parks and Recreation also won the Outstanding Program Award for their Active Adults 50+ Program, and Recreation Superintendent Corey Larriva received the President’s Award.
ABOUT THE AWARDS
The Arizona Parks and Recreation Association Awards Committee receives approximately 100+ nominations each year. All nominations are carefully reviewed by a panel of APRA members and industry professionals from around the State of Arizona. The Outstanding Program Award recognizes organizations, institutions, or agencies for development, implementation, or coordination fo the most outstanding programs.
